Looking for the best KFC coleslaw recipe? This copycat KFC coleslaw is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet, just like the original! With a few simple ingredients like vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar, Miracle Whip, and shredded cabbage, you can recreate this popular coleslaw recipe at home. The addition of carrots and celery salt gives it that signature crunch and flavor. Ideal for BBQs, picnics, or serving with fried chicken, this easy-to-make coleslaw can be prepared ahead of time and tastes even better after chilling for 12-24 hours. Perfect for those looking for a creamy coleslaw recipe that’s both simple and delicious!

Ingredients:
- 6 ½ tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- ½ teaspoon celery salt
- 6 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- 2 ½ cups Miracle Whip
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 heads green cabbage, finely shredded
Instructions:
Salting and Draining the Cabbage (Optional)
For an extra crispy coleslaw, you can salt and drain your shredded cabbage. Simply sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt per head of cabbage and let it sit in a colander for 1-2 hours. After the cabbage wilts, squeeze out the excess moisture using paper towels or a cheesecloth.
Assembling the Coleslaw
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, and celery salt until smooth.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar and dried tarragon, mixing until fully combined.
- Fold in the Miracle Whip to create a creamy base.
- Add the diced carrots and shredded cabbage. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the cabbage and carrots are coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, although 24 hours is ideal, to allow the flavors to meld.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This KFC copycat coleslaw is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet. It’s easy to make and gives you the same satisfying crunch and flavor of the famous KFC coleslaw. Plus, it’s a great addition to any meal, especially barbecues, fried chicken, or sandwiches!
Tips
- For an even crispier coleslaw, make sure to drain the cabbage well after salting.
- You can adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
- If you prefer a tangier taste, add a little extra apple cider vinegar.
Variations and Substitutions
- If you don’t have Miracle Whip, you can substitute it with mayonnaise for a more traditional flavor.
- You can replace the tarragon with a small amount of mustard if you prefer a more robust taste.
- Add a pinch of pepper or paprika for a little extra flavor and color.
FAQs
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge for 12-24 hours allows the flavors to develop and improves the taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I use regular vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
You can, but apple cider vinegar gives a slightly milder and sweeter taste, which is ideal for this recipe. Regular vinegar will work if that’s what you have on hand.
Serving and Suggestions
Serve this coleslaw as a side dish at your next barbecue, picnic, or family dinner. It pairs wonderfully with fried chicken, pulled pork, or grilled meats. You can also top your burgers or sandwiches with a generous scoop of this creamy slaw for added flavor and texture!
KFC Coleslaw Recipe – Best Copycat
10
servings15
minutesIngredients
6 ½ tablespoons vegetable oil
1 ½ cups sugar
½ teaspoon celery salt
6 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
2 ½ cups Miracle Whip
2 carrots, finely diced
2 heads green cabbage, finely shredded
Directions
- Salting and Draining the Cabbage (Optional)
- For an extra crispy coleslaw, you can salt and drain your shredded cabbage. Simply sprinkle 1 tablespoon of salt per head of cabbage and let it sit in a colander for 1-2 hours. After the cabbage wilts, squeeze out the excess moisture using paper towels or a cheesecloth.
- Assembling the Coleslaw
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, and celery salt until smooth.
- Stir in the apple cider vinegar and dried tarragon, mixing until fully combined.
- Fold in the Miracle Whip to create a creamy base.
- Add the diced carrots and shredded cabbage. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the cabbage and carrots are coated with the dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, although 24 hours is ideal, to allow the flavors to meld.
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